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Deputy Chief Hastings Shade speaks at the flag pole dedication ceremony, while Housing Authority resident and veteran Smokey Goombi (seated) looks on with members of the Cherokee Gourd Clan, Ed Teague, and Curtis Hunt.

TAHLEQUAH, OK - Smokey Goombi, Cherokee Tribal Member, held a flagpole dedication ceremony at McSpadden Court in Tahlequah. The flag was dedicated as a “welcome home” symbol to all veterans in the area

"Welcome home is a healing slogan to veterans,” said Mary Horse Chief, Customer Service Coordinator for the Housing Authority of the Cherokee Nation.

Reverend Don Nickles said the opening prayer; Kelly Anqueo and Joe Deerinwater sang the traditional tribal flag song, while Ed Teague and Curtis Hunt, Cherokee Gourd Clan members, performed the flag raising ceremony. Tonya Still, Miss Indian Oklahoma, played a special song for the veterans on her flute. Hastings Shade, Cherokee Nation Deputy Chief, delivered a keynote address, followed by a memorial song and closing prayer.

"This is a healing place, where all veterans can come", said Shade.

"I am a veteran, and I’d just like to say, welcome home, to all veterans and their families", Goombi said. "The speakers all came out when I asked and for that I am grateful."